If you’ve ever taken on a home renovation project, or even just started thinking about one, you’ve probably heard a few stressful stories from friends or neighbors:
This is the reality many homeowners face when design and construction are handled by separate teams. This kind of setup is the more traditional way of doing things, but it often leads to added stress, miscommunication, and unexpected issues. Many of our clients come to us after experiencing this stress firsthand or after hearing the stories and wanting to avoid the same outcome. Design-build remodeling is the approach we’ve trusted at McClurg for decades, and we’ve refined it over the years to make the process smoother for everyone, especially the homeowner.
Design-build remodeling is a process where one experienced team handles your entire project—from the first conversation and design concept to the final nail. That means fewer moving parts, fewer people to coordinate, and a much more manageable experience for the homeowner.
The more traditional route often looks very different. If you're planning to update a kitchen, bathroom, or another part of your home, the first step is usually finding a general contractor. Then you might need to hire an architect or kitchen & bath designer, or both. For each person or company involved, you’ll likely do your own research, ask around, check references, compare bids, and hope that everyone you bring in is not only qualified, but communicates well and is aligned with your goals.
Once the work begins, things get even more complicated. As the homeowner, you often end up being the one coordinating schedules between the different players, managing the flow of information, and making sure things stay on track. You may also be responsible for sourcing materials, checking lead times, tracking deliveries, and trying to time everything right so it fits into the construction schedule. Permits, inspections, subcontractors—it all adds up quickly.
We’ve seen how overwhelming this can become. And it’s why so many people choose to work with a design-build team instead.
At McClurg, our design-build process is built to carry the weight for you. We take care of the planning, permitting, communication, coordination, and execution, all with the goal of making the process feel less like a full-time job and more like a partnership you can feel good about. You’ll still be involved in the decisions that matter most, but without having to navigate all the moving pieces on your own.
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Design-Build Remodeling |
Traditional Remodeling |
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Team Structure |
One company handles design and construction |
Separate architect, designer, and contractor |
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Communication |
Everyone is working together from the start |
Homeowner acts as the go-between |
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Budgeting |
Costs are considered early and updated as the design evolves |
Pricing surprises often happen after plans are finalized |
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Accountability |
One team is responsible for the full project |
Responsibility can be unclear or shared |
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Timeline |
Better coordination helps reduce delays |
Schedule gaps and miscommunication are more likely |
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Client Experience |
Less stress, more support, and a clearer process |
Homeowner carries more of the planning and coordination burden |
Many of our clients have been with us for years. We’ve helped them remodel as their families grew, as they transitioned into new homes, and as their needs changed over time. Often, those same clients recommend us to their children, their neighbors, and their friends. That kind of trust means everything to us, and it’s something we’ve built through a consistent process, honest communication, and high-quality craftsmanship.
Our clients come to us because they’ve either experienced or heard about how overwhelming a home remodeling project can be. They’re looking for something more straightforward, with fewer surprises and a team they don’t have to manage themselves. That’s what the design-build approach allows us to offer.
Whether you're opening up your living space, renovating a kitchen, or updating your home to better suit the years ahead, our design-build process is tailored to your goals, timeline, and peace of mind.
Our clients in Skaneateles, the Botsfords, shared a few words in their testimonial that really stayed with us:
"It's just been a pleasure. You have people coming into your house that you've never met before, and by the time they're leaving you feel like you've known them your whole life. This is all awesome, but it wouldn't have been the same without the people that we worked with."
We don't take these words lightly. We care deeply about the quality of our work, and for us, that means both the craftsmanship and the experience. We want every homeowner to feel supported, respected, and genuinely cared for throughout the process.
You can see the Botsfords' full story here.
Trust is at the heart of every successful remodeling project. You deserve a team that keeps you informed, respects your home, and stands behind their work.
With over 45 years of experience remodeling homes in Syracuse and Central New York, McClurg is proud to be a trusted partner to so many families in our community.
If you’ve been thinking about a remodeling project for your home and want to learn more about how the design-build process works, we’d be glad to walk you through it. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
More information: What is Design-Build Remodeling?